European Beewolf
Although the adults of the species are herbivores (feeding on nectar and pollen), the species derives its name from the behavior of the inseminated females, who hunt Western honey bees. The female places several of its paralyzed prey together with an egg in a small underground chamber, to serve as food for the wasp larvae. Wikipedia
I inadvertently unearthed this individual whilst digging potatoes at the allotment. It was completely unharmed and flew off after a minute's acclimatisation. Norwich - August 2023
At the allotment, Norwich - July 2023
NWT Thorpe Marshes, Norwich - August 2019
When I photographed this individual on the allotment I assumed that it was a species of hoverfly. However, closer examination of the picture at home showed otherwise. I was very pleased to discover its true identity. Norwich - July 2018 Thanks to Martin Elkins via iSpot for identification.